With soulful singles like “25/8” and “Mr. Wrong” (featuring Drake) tipping off this album, it was clear that platinum-selling diva Mary J. Blige was serious about this sequel to 1994’s “My Life.”

After all, Blige may be an actress, entrepreneur and social activist with an eye on empowering woman, but first and foremost she is a hit-maker.

The singer should have no problem scoring hits off this set deep into 2012. The star-powered album is filled with some A-list guest stars including Nas on the infectious grooves of “Feel Inside,” Brook Lynn on the thumping “Midnight Drive,” and an intriguing pairing with Busta Rhymes who toughens the smooth grooves of “Next Level.”

Production wise this does get too slick on occasion, that’s all part of the more sophisticated talent Blige has become from her tough early days.

Undoubtedly two songs that will get a lot of attention – and justifiably so – is a staggering duet with Beyonce on “Love a Woman,” and a killer cover of the vintage Chaka Khan smash “Ain’t Nobody.”

All that acting is fine, and continues to earn rave reviews. Who can blame a singer for branching out?

But Blige is at her finest when she’s reaching back and letting her soul shine as she does on this impressive outing.